SPANGLISH

Apr 07, 2008 - 16:29 PM PST

I went to Health Fair this weekend in Huntington Park. It was a mere 20 minute ride from where I live, and never would I have imagined that a 20 minute ride to the other side of the 101 would be like traveling to a different country. I have never been to Mexico before, but it was as if I was plucked out of America and put right in the middle of this new world, where I was lost in language, not so much in how I look, I am filipino and we did catch a few resemblance to their culture.

Anywho, my friend who was a nurse at the health fair and I stood in the middle of this big CARNAVAL in awe on how it felt like we were in a different world. We were helping with checking people's blood pressure but we had a hard time communicating with the patients their diagnosis because of the language barrier. We were fortunate enough when a little kid was there for them to translate everything we said and what they said back to us. It was as if I was stuck in the Adam Sandler movie "SPANGLISH", except my mom, my friend and I were "Tea Leoni's" character. We stared blankly at those who tried to communicate with us, as we felt helpless in trying to help them.

I find it an interesting subject to discuss such an issue.
For the many that do not speak the English language and have lived here for many years it makes one question what the reason is why they cannot speak it. I really do think it has a lot to do with the community that they are living in. How is a person suppose to adjust to a new country when all around them the community is promoting everything in their own language. I think many believe that this is helping those who are new to this country but in reality they are kept in a box and not expose to the world that is out there for them. SO when the time comes where they have to spread their wings and be exposed to new people and things, they become mimes and have to play the game of charade to be able to communicate with anyone that is not of their native language.

I think it's time that we really help these people the best way possible, instead of helping them in a way where it benefits us first before them. 80% of the people that I met over the weekend did not have any type of health care and 90% did not speak English. I just feel that the issue needs to be address, and before we think of a way to help them in a federal way, I suggest we start in a 10 block radius. Maybe offer a free english class to those who need one, then start taking down signs in the different languages, but instead offer the sign in the English language. I don't know it's just a thought and I just wanted to speak a little louder on the cause.